Many Burmese invest hope and money to get work permits for Malaysia, only to find themselves exploited... "?I regret coming to Malaysia,? murmured Ko Shwe. ?I feel afraid here. The only thing I want now is to go home.? A farmer from Sittwe in western Burma, Ko Shwe left his home last year after the protests against rising fuel prices sparked a national uprising. Faced with economic misery in Burma, Ko Shwe joined the thousands of Burmese—especially those from rural areas—migrating to foreign countries to earn a living. Just seven days after starting work at a factory in Kuala Lumpur, he lost his right hand while working with an electric lathe. Construction workers at a site in Kuala Lumpur. Typically, migrant workers face exploitation by employers and deportation by authorities. (Photo: AFP) Hiding his injury self-consciously, Ko Shwe spoke about his plan to return to Burma after he receives some compensation from his employer. However, as his work permit has not yet been approved, he is not confident of getting anything—not even reimbursement for his hospital bill. The ongoing economic decline in Burma has led to an outflow of laborers to neighboring countries. While Thailand has the most open market for illegal foreign labor, countries such as Malaysia provide an opportunity for workers with passports who can apply for legal employment..."